How is Your Building Performing?

Is your building 5 to 7 years old, or more? Does it perform the same as the day it was new?

Your answer is probably “No, but we expect it to.” So why isn’t it performing the same? What has changed?

The building is no longer new; changes and wear occur over time through normal use. Buildings require regular care and maintenance. Daily stress occurs on the building and its components. Temperature changes throughout the day and from season to season affect the exterior façade, the foundation, the roof, and the mechanical systems. Different materials move against and react with one another.

Who is responsible for observing and correcting any issues? As the owner, the building is your responsibility, and it became your responsibility the day you moved in. The contractor has a responsibility to correct his work within a year of completion. But maintenance due to wear and aging are your responsibility.

How do you monitor these changes and prepare for them? Inspect the building regularly, and plan for maintenance expenses. Budgeting now for periodic care reviews and investing in your building on an annual basis will help avoid costly repair expenses 10 to 20 years from now.

Did you know that roof failure does not always occur from the outside? Have you considered looking internally? Have you heard of flat roofs lasting 15 to 20 years, or more? They can, if semi-annual reviews are completed and any required work is done immediately and not delayed.

The same is true for all elements and materials of a building - interior and exterior. Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent minor problems from growing into bigger issues - leaking masonry walls leads to hidden mold, sweating or dripping pipes cause hidden damage, or mechanical systems no longer in balance causing unwanted vibrations.

Arkos Design would appreciate the opportunity to evaluate your building, define the hidden causes of each problem, and come up with a solution that helps avoid more costly repairs in the future. Our team is highly-qualified to perform building assessments, including exterior and interior, mechanical and electrical systems, and site issues that may be of concern and have an impact on your building. Let’s invest a little now to keep our buildings functional and healthy.